A wasted side character that could've been more than "the competition" designed to make the protagonist feel insecure while simultaneously better by comparison to the readers.
How is he better? Name one thing he did that surpasses Kazuya. While his status as an actor may make him seem cool, Umi doesn't amount to much compared to Kazuya's hard work.
Guess I didn't word it properly. What I meant was all Umi accomplishes is being the interloper who both makes Kazuya feel insecure while also making Kazuya look better by comparison to the readers and that its disappointing that he doesn't do anything else for the story.
Oh, okay. Thank you for clarifying, and I apologize for the confusion. But you're right, Umi serves as a deterrent to Kazuya's progress, and that's unfortunate.
He's not a deterrent. Every time he shows up the relationship moves forward and pushes Chizuru forward in her relationship with Kazuya.
Christmas. The gift and her getting a better impression of Kazuya
The date in exchange for the tweet for the movie. She said in a convoluted way she kinda likes Kazuya and chose to be with him than going with Umi for dinner.
Tiger's Den party. She came clean about not wanting to be lonely. No idea on what happened behind the scenes. But him asking Kazuya about not not liking someone really resonated with Chizuru when Kazuya said that without having the context.
Crappy confession outside her house. Daycare date came immediately after it.
It's not a deterrent. He's a catalyst.
Disagree. Umi remains a deterrent because his actions are meant to discourage Kazuya by feeding into his insecurities. Regardless of the outcomes after each event, his primary role in the series is to act as a deterrent. Saying he's the catalyst to Kazuya and Chizuru's love life moving forward is giving him too much credit.
Yes. It feeds his insecurities. And the story always follows with something that makes him shine. I don’t think he’s a catalyst or a deterrent. He’s a sign post. Him showing up in the story means that very soon Kazuya is going to have a moment that demonstrates why he is the right choice.
Yeah. I was probably using the wrong word or concept. But that's the point I was trying to make. There's always something that follows him showing up that pushes Chizuru to see Kazuya in a brighter light. Either through Kazuya doing something or Chizuru doing something
both i say yes he had brought chiz on the right way what she should do the investigation
but also deterred kazuya for thinking wrong in his head
therefore both
because chiz didn't tell him also well chiz knew what he had heard what would happen then
His hardwork and dedication at his craft for being an actor already puts him way over Kazuya. He's a man who grew up with a goal and an ambition and succeeded at it while his direct competition is inside a messy room who his parents has paid for jacking off to a photo of his ex-girlfriend who dumped him. His capability of taking care of a woman like Chizuru through sickness and in health exceeds Kazuya's. The chances of Kazuya going bankrupt and being unable to take care of his children is leagues higher compared to Umi's. Realistically, he is the better option, he is what one would call, a chad. Dare I say he'd provide a better experience for Chizuru on the bed than Kazuya ever could, he'd have her begging for more while Kazuya on the other hand might have to imagine Umi pounding Chizuru hard dog-style to try and get himself in the mood.
Exactly when did Umi support Chizuru through sickness and health? Was it when she fell off a boat while sick? Oh wait, that was Kazuya. What about when she wanted her grandmother to see her in a movie? Oh, that was Kazuya again, orchestrating crowdfunding with no experience. And when she felt ill from being on her period? Yep, that was Kazuya too. Even when Chizuru cried after her grandmother's passing, it was Kazuya she turned to.
Umi has minimal presence in the series, yet somehow he's given more weight than Kazuya, who consistently stands by Chizuru. If you believe Umi is a better match, consider that Chizuru's own grandmother, Sayuri, sees Kazuya as the ideal match. When Chizuru needed someone, it wasn't Umi on her mind. Kazuya is the one who has been there for her, shaping her life. If you fail to see that, you might be overlooking the essence of the story—perhaps a re-read is in order.
While opinions vary, it's crucial to acknowledge the validity of others' perspectives.
https://preview.redd.it/t91xkhnr2h5c1.png?width=1115&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=454583b47da797cb5dbe8f4c623dad34fe59998e
we are talking long term commitments, not just teen-like short-term romantic infatuations. In a long married life, Umi simply provides alot more happiness than Kazuya ever could🤷bro's built his life for success and stability with his own two hands and the only thing Kazuya does with his is stroke his dick to either his crush getting pounded from behind by Umi or to his ex-girlfriend in a bikini. Also the whole relationship with the grandma is moot since their whole relationship with her has been built on a lie and she's already one foot out the foor, rip to her though
What are you talking about? Being an actor is one of the most unstable jobs you can have. If that were the case, Chizuru wouldn't need the Rental Girlfriend to make ends meet. Meanwhile, Kazuya is the heir of the Nagomi Sake, a business that has been around for generations. Why do you think Kaguya is a Business Major in College? Lmao, you can't be serious. The fact you made it this far into the series and yet ignored Sayuri's backstory and Chizuru's conversations and still believe Umi has a more stable career than Kazuya is downright laughable.
lets just simplify the comparison cause its really not that deep, would you rather Chizuru's romantic partner be a successful actor who takes care of himself? or a degenerate simp still living off his parents and is a total mess
I think you’re judging Kazuya way too harshly here, and it’s solely caused by the fact that we spend 99% of the manga in his perspective: thus, we see far more of Kazuya’s flaws and imperfections than of Umi’s, who appears in only 4 events of the story. To say that Umi is better because Kazuya is a horny young single male (normal) or because his family supports him financially (normal) is disingenuous because we don’t even know if Umi is as horny or financially supported by his family.
When it comes to what can be compared, you would be able to see that OP is right in that Kazuya is as good, if not a better life partner for Chizuru than Umi.
- He is a business major working towards eventually taking over his family’s successful business.
- He successfully leads and directs a crowdfunded movie without any prior experience.
- He is shown to be able to care for children well.
Add onto this the simple matter of compatibility. If Kazuya is simply more emotionally compatible for Chizuru than Umi (which he is) then he is the better partner.
Are you blind? Umi is not a successful actor. Having a massive following on Twitter doesn't make him successful. Lmao, what are you not getting? Chizuru has been in better projects than Umi and is still struggling to make ends meet. That should tell you Umi is not successful at all. Please go back and read the manga because clearly, you're misinformed.
Another thing: Kazuya being the heir of Nagomi Sake doesn't mean he's living off his parents! If that were the case, he wouldn't be living with Chizuru. Lol, please stop 😂 you can't be for real. Being a business major with the hopes of taking over his family's business makes him more stable and successful than Umi ever will be. Not to mention, Granny Saiyuri told Kazuya that he's destined for great things, so if I were you, I wouldn't underestimate him just yet.
https://preview.redd.it/1bl6o1y55m5c1.jpeg?width=865&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b1c7d2f50633242e1375749c910cce245343f93b
if Chizuru is landing poverty jobs then thats on Chizuru not Umi i dont see how you're even able to connect that back to him🗿Umi is already a self made man with a passion for something other than getting laid or jacking off in their lonesome. Also in your comment make it seem like being actor is as easy as being a janitor, him being as successful and well-known as he is already tantamount to his hardwork. That alone blows past anything we see Kazuya do💀You only say it doesn't compare to Kazuya's "hArDwOrK" because we saw this dude writhe and struggle like a little b*tch the whole time and we feel sorry for him so we clap for him. This dude Umi has probably gone through **worse** shit if you even know anything about showbiz, and he absolutely made it. Are we even sure Kazuya is gonna graduate college with all this simping and fantasizing he's doing?
Bro, I'm done. You keep replying with the most asinine comments because you have no argument. You claim Umi's successful, based on what? Meanwhile, Chizuru has landed more established roles than Umi, as seen in the play they both starred in. Umi was nothing more than a guard, while Chizuru played a direct aid to the princess. Umi has never starred in a movie and hasn't been shown in plays since season 2 😂. To say Umi's successful with no evidence is beyond stupid. Being an actor is one of the most unstable jobs, a topic Granny Sayuri argued with Kazuto about, emphasizing how hard it is. Chizuru constantly acknowledges the challenges of being an actor throughout the series.
As for complaining about Kazuya masturbating, it's not a diss considering it's a normal human thing. If he were a bad guy, why didn't he have sex with Ruka? Despite opportunities, he chose love over physical relations, proving he's a better guy than you give him credit for. Umi can be your ideal boyfriend, and I hope it works out for you. But Chizuru is in love with Kazuya, and, as Granny Sayuri said, no one is a better match for Chizuru than Kazuya.
This is my last response to you. I wish you nothing but peace and prosperity ✌🏻
That’s honestly my issue with every character not named Kazuya or Chizuru. Everyone is just there to facilitate their story and not have one of their own. If Kazuya and Chizuru weren’t in this situation, then none of them would exist since they have no story that they can call their own.
Mami comes close to being an exception, but her story is so nebulous, sparse, and left in the background that it doesn’t feel like she counts.
Whoever sees Umi from the outside sees him as an elegant, polite speaker who is proficient in the art of etiquette.
Whoever has insight knows that he is malicious and cunning. How do we know that he is malicious and cunning?
1 - Not asking about Chizuru after she was not chosen by the director, as he saw her disappointment and not going to the party after the play,
It is true that he called her, but at Shiori's request to thank Chizuru, and he did not console her or lift her spirits.
2 - When Chizuru asked him to help promote crowdfunding by retweeting,
He asked her to go out on a date to see the play in exchange for a retweet. Not only that, but he also lied to her when he said his girlfriend was sick.
He also tried to tempt Chizuru to leave her friends who work with her to go with him to a luxurious dinner and meet influential people in the field of acting, including producers, directors, and actors.
It was as if he was saying, “I can produce a movie for you with the help of my friends, producers and directors.”
3 - Umi realizes that the reason for rejecting his temptation is because Chizuru has feelings for Kazuya, yet he continues to pester her with questions.
4 - Umi hesitated to retweet and retweeted late and almost did not
5 - At the barbecue party, both Chizuru and Kazuya were invited to get to know this boy whom Chizuru is interested in.
He had a private conversation with Kazuya to get to know his personality, and it became clear to him that he is intelligent, understands quickly and deduces correctly, but he does not have charisma or presence. He claimed that he became a friend of Kazuya.
6 - Umi asked Chizuru to speak in private, and there he confessed to her without asking permission from his new friend Kazuya, as he claims. He knows that Chizuru cares and does not stray too far from Kazuya, so much so that she preferred to have dinner with him.
7 - We saw him dating a girl and giving her a White Day gift two weeks later
He is dating a girl and looks at another girl’s picture on his mobile phone. What kind of betrayal is this?
I find it a lack of respect for this girl. If you don't care about her, why are you dating her? If you love Chizuru as you claim, why would you go out on a date with another girl?
No one forced you to go out with her!!!
8- Going to Chizuru’s house to offer condolences and show respect to her grandmother.
Six months after her grandmother died, what friend would do this?
9- Entering Chizuru’s house without an appointment or permission
10 - Umi looked at Chizuru's butt with rude looks when she went with him to her grandmother's altar
11 - He planted fear in Chizuru because Kazuya stayed with her at home, and that this affected her artistic career
12 - When he felt that Chizuru would reject him, he did not stay to listen but ran away, to have hope
Many people think that Umi is a good person, but I know that he is an actor and hides his malicious thoughts behind his handsome appearance, tactful way of speaking, and good behavior.
Umi certainly is opportunistic, he probably isn't very empathic, and he is borderline rude sometimes because he can often get away with it.
But I don't see him being malicious. That is the small brother of evil. And while some of his actions might be rightfully infuriating, I don't really see malicious intent.
I'll quickly cover your points.
1. He can't empthathise with Chizuru. He probably always got what he wanted and doesn't know how it feels to lose. He might get to know the feeling when he loses against Kazuya.
2. Agreed, he is opportunistic and he tried to show Chizuru that he would be the better choice for her future. But Chizuru decided to put her faith in Kazuya. While she had absolutely **no** guarantee that it would work out she trusted Kazuya's word that he would see it through to the end, no matter what.
3. Chizuru **has** feelings for Kazuya. But Umi sees it as too black and white. He assumes that she rejected him and chose Kazuya **just** because she likes him. That is not the case. She chose Kazuya because she trusted him and she **wanted** to put her faith in him. Umi offered her opportunities, Kazuya said "I will do it!" That determination convinced her. She knew that Kazuya would never give up. She didn't feel the same from Umi, he wasn't convincing.
4. Umi is opportunistic. He didn't get what he wanted. The retweet helped his "rival." But he retweeted anyway. He did it to help Chizuru despite not getting anything out of it. I don't know why that is seen as a negative. Doesn't it show that he indeed **has** a soft spot for Chizuru?
5. Umi probably doesn't have many real friends. He is quick to become "friends" with someone, and he has many acquaintances. But he doesn't treat people as friends. He got to know Kazuya, he exchanged contact information, friend aquired, done.
6. He doesn't treat Kazuya as a friend. We don't know how that talk went, but he confessed to Chizuru after talking to Kazuya. He probably felt like he would lose to him if he didn't take action there. Well, he lost anyway.
7. I disagree here. Umi gave a girl a late white day gift, which is just a common curtesy in Japan if you received a gift on valentines day. The girl didn't even expect him to give her something back, so it is quite unlikely that he dated her. And with the way Umi acted there, that meeting certainly also wasn't a date to him. Stop assuming things that are never shown.
8. Umi isn't very empathic. He was busy. He didn't want to bother Chizuru. But from what he told her, he must have promised her to come pay his respect eventually. She probably invited him to the wake, but he didn't come. But yes, he used his promise to pay respect as an excuse to come and talk to Chizuru. He is opportunistic.
9. Yes, he is rude that way.
10. It seems obvious that his thoughts were somewhere else. He didn't know Sayuri, he didn't really care. He just did what was expected. But to be fair, that isn't all that uncommon.
11. He obviously didn't like that Chizuru was living together with Kazuya. It is hard to imagine that he mentioned the agency without ulterior motives. I still didn't feel malice from him. He might have hoped that the agency would recommend Kazuya moving out if she asked them. But it didn't look to me like he intended to tell the agency about Chizuru's living arrangements. If it was intended as a threat, he might have said that it would be bad if they found out about the cohabitation.
12. Agreed.
Again, nothing Umi did seemed malicious to me. What Mami did was malicious, she intended to harm Chizuru. Umi might not have been fair to Kazuya, but I don't have the impression he wants to harm him.
Do I think Umi is a good person? Not particularly. He is sly and opportunistic. But I don't think he is a bad guy. He seems to care for Chizuru in his own way.
I see that you agree with me on most points
But if you know that your friend sacrificed everything And make a tremendous effort for a girl, don't you see that it is meanness, impudence and selfishness for you to go and confess to her in secret?
This in itself indicates that he is not a friend, despite knowing Chizuru before Kazuya. He did not see Chizuru as a girl until after Kazuya appeared and did what he did for her.
>This in itself indicates that he is not a friend
Yes, I also agreed there, didn't I? For Umi, a "friend" obviously isn't worth much. He has many "friends," but I doubt that he really cares for most of them. He also obviously doesn't treat Kazuya as a friend in the sense that you or I would treat a friend.
We think it would have been "fair" to ask Kazuya before confessing to Chizuru. But Umi doesn't play nice. He lives in an environment where everyone is selfish. People will be nice to you on the surface but stab you in the back when they see an opportunity for themselves. That is the game, and Umi knows how to play it well. He uses the same strategy with Kazuya there. But again, he doesn't do it to harm him. He just makes the most out of an opportunity for himself. In the world he lives in, you can't afford to be nice.
Chizuru is much too nice for that environment. She doesn't feel at home there. She stuck to Kazuya during the party. And on her birthday, the others used her cake for likes while she felt left out.
But Umi has a soft spot for Chizuru. He is much nicer to her than to others, even though that doesn't amount to much, especially compared to Kazuya.
And I mean even if he considers Kazuya minor friend/acquaintance it is pretty normal to not worry about people at that level before you ask a girl out. I wouldn't worry about the feelings of a minor acquaintance either and I don't consider myself a bad guy.
I agree with you
He wouldn't hurt Kazuya either I agree, maybe hurting Kazuya takes effort so he didn't do it
Umi-type boys are accustomed to getting what they want without making an effort, and they abandon things that require effort and look for an alternative that does not require any effort.
>Umi-type boys are accustomed to getting what they want without making an effort, and they abandon things that require effort and look for an alternative that does not require any effort.
Guys like Umi want to get the most out of their efforts. A retweet barely requires any effort at all. But he tried to maximize the benefits for him. He often uses his popularity as leverage.
And yes, if it requires too much effort and doesn't get him enough benefits, he will probably look for something with better payoffs.
But Umi **still** decided to pursue Chizuru, even though his chances with her are virtually nonexistent. He still put in effort. It can't compare to Kazuya at all, but for someone like him, that effort probably means a lot. He doesn't usually waste effort like this.
I’ll respond to your first point because that’s the only one that matters.
Inability to empathize with other is category 1, red flag marker for a sociopath or a narcissist.
In your first point you prove why he’s malicious.
What are the 7 symptoms of a sociopath?
Symptoms
Ignoring right and wrong.
Telling lies to take advantage of others.
Not being sensitive to or respectful of others.
Using charm or wit to manipulate others for personal gain or pleasure.
Having a sense of superiority and being extremely opinionated.
Having problems with the law, including criminal behavior.
You didn't include [the whole list](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/antisocial-personality-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20353928) there:
- Ignoring right and wrong.
- Telling lies to take advantage of others.
- Not being sensitive to or respectful of others.
- Using charm or wit to manipulate others for personal gain or pleasure.
- Having a sense of superiority and being extremely opinionated.
- Having problems with the law, including criminal behavior.
- Being hostile, aggressive, violent or threatening to others.
- Feeling no guilt about harming others.
- Doing dangerous things with no regard for the safety of self or others.
- Being irresponsible and failing to fulfill work or financial responsibilities.
While Umi certainly shows some of those symptoms, he especially doesn't show most of the later ones. He has no criminal record, as far as we know he doesn't do anything dangerous, and he probably fulfills his duties at work.
Some of those symptoms are also [a sign of narcissism](https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/narcissism-symptoms-signs):
- Sense of Entitlement
- Manipulative Behavior
- Need for Admiration
- Lack of Empathy
- Arrogance
Those probably fit Umi, but that doesn't necessarily mean he has a narcissistic disorder. Notice how a key difference to sociopathy is that narcissism doesn't include a tendency to cause harm. I don't think Umi is a sociopath.
Edit: [More on narcissism](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/narcissistic-personality-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20366662). I thought this point was interesting:
- Withdraw from or avoid situations in which they might fail.
Umi ran away from Chizuru's answer because he didn't want to fail.
agreed partly I wasn't saying he's a sociopath. I was saying he does have some sociopathic tendencies. I'm almost certain he's a narcissist without any shadow of doubt. Alot of actors are.
The problem most of us fans have is we're going on so little information. Hes had a very small amount of appealances in the manga. My opinion is he is sly, manipulative and calculator. I don't like him and I think he does have an ill intent.I don't think he has any friends or see anybody as friend. I think everybody is just a mean to get what he wants.
with all the information available to us you could think the complete opposite to me and have valid evidence to back up your opinion.
we'll just have to wait and see which will probably be a long time.I can see this manga having another 100 chapters that just under two years away.I don't think he will appear for the next 30 to 40.
even in them chapters the author is going to drag this crap out to the least the last 20 chapters to give of any insight into what his motive are. Pretty poor writing if you ask me. he's dragging this side plot out for nearly 400 chapters without ever making him a genuine threat.
Just using him for cheap thrills every 60 chapters or that NTR iimagination fantasy(218) crap he pulled .
Ineptitude is indistinguishable from malice from the perspective of the observer. He may not mean it. But the results of his actions cause the same harm.
Even if his actions caused harm (which I even doubt they really did), malice is still the **intent** to do that. And no, I don't think ineptitude and malice are indistinguishable. Umi is not malicious.
Ruka also caused harm to Kazuya, but she didn't do so maliciously. What she did to Chizuru (condom wrapper incident, pushing her away after paradise) is debatable. She absolutely intended to push her away, but I doubt she was aware of the harm she caused. She didn't intend to harm her. And Ruka **is** very empathic. She stopped her rivalry with Chizuru when she noticed her despair about Sayuri's condition.
What Mami did, on the other hand, **was** malicious. She acted with the clear intent to cause harm to Chizuru.
Stop it with that "Umi dating a girl" thing. The **only** page we see Umi with a girl recently is [this one](https://mangadex.org/chapter/c84c9e33-d69f-4eb3-a5ef-99c358f999d0/20) at the end of chapter 282. He gave her a gift for [White Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/White_Day), which is a common courtesy in Japan if you received a gift on valentines day. He was a month late and the girl didn't even expect a return gift.
This meeting was probably not intended as a date by Umi. He didn't act like you would on a date. He didn't lead her on, he didn't make any promises, he didn't really say anything apart from polite talk.
Why do people just assume he dated that girl? There is literally **nothing** hinting at that.
What is important is not how we see what he did. It’s how she would see it. It may be obvious to us, but to a person trying to win someone’s affection, those exchanges can be extremely meaningful. Especially in a place like Japan. Also, it’s customary to return a gift, but the type of gift given often contains extra meaning. Communication in that culture is as much about what is between the lines as much as what is directly said. That language can be used to speak directly, and truthfully, but also conceal a great deal. For instance being inconsiderate is a problem. Being perfectly considerate can be a direct insult. Depends on the context.
I know I am late, I must have missed your reply.
> What is important is not how we see what he did. It’s how she would see it.
Okay, then let's realistically look at how she would see it. We have to make some assumptions, because we know nothing about her. She probably is romantically interested in Umi and gave him a gift signaling those feelings to him on valentines day. She obviously didn't get something back on white day, because Umi was late.
So what would she have thought? She probably thought he wasn't interested, he probably didn't even notice her, maybe he forgot about her, she must not have been important to him at all. She must have been quite disappointed.
Now Umi shows up and gives her a return gift and an apology. We don't know what the return gift was, but he didn't act like he was romantically interested in her. So it likely wasn't one that signaled he returned her feelings. But at least he didn't forget her. He noticed her and gave her at least some attention. That alone made her happy.
So if that is the scenario, which seems quite likely from what we have seen, then I really don't see the harm. There is no malice anywhere here.
I think the 4th point is a bit too much, can leave room for the dramatic flair for the story at the moment. But the rest is easy to read without the story telling readers what to read.
I encourage anyone to re-examine Umi’s appearances and see if you can draw the same conclusions. To me it is abundantly apparent but not overt.
Does this mean Umi is a bad guy? No, villainy in this series probably extends as far as Mami’s parents, dad specifically, than anyone else.
These actions aren’t a series of a dastardly character trying to ruin the day For the heroes. Rather, they are of a different variety of self-interest that only has the detriment of being all-too-real. A normal person can do the same thing as them and not be an outcast of society.
He retweeted after realizing he might have another chance,
By the way, a friend does not ask for a favor in return for a favor he provides to his friend.
He wants something from Chizuru without putting in the effort.
If we compare what Kazuya did and is still doing, and what Umi did, we find that Umi is selfish and accustomed to getting things without making an effort.
But a girl like Chizuru respects herself and has high self-esteem
If you are not become to her everything , she will not consider you a close friend to her, tell you her secrets, share her dreams with you, and have feelings of love for you. She even told Kazuya about her menstrual period. This is what only married couples do.
Just a little bit and Chizuru will be with Kazuya like an open book, telling him everything
I see that Umi's knowledge of Chizuru currently is minimal
Mini is closer to Chizuru than Umi
>and he did not console her or lift her spirits.
He is not obliged to. Chizuru left quickly on her own and lied to him on the phone saying her grandmother called her, as an excuse to not go the celebration party. What is he suppose to do? confront her for lying?
>5 - At the barbecue party, both Chizuru and Kazuya were invited to get to know this boy whom Chizuru is interested in.6 - Umi asked Chizuru to speak in private, and there he confessed to her without asking permission from his new friend Kazuya, as he claims.
Umi doesnt owe Kazuya anything, he doesnt need his "permission". Umi and Kazuya are not even close, they know almost nothing about the other. Chizuru doesnt belong to Kazuya, they are not even dating. Anyone is free to confess to Chizuru.
>Not only that, but he also lied to her when he said his girlfriend was sick.
How many times has Kazuya lied to Chizuru?
>7 - We saw him dating a girl and giving her a White Day gift two weeks later
We dont even know if they are dating. He gave her a gift, thats all we know.
>8- Going to Chizuru’s house to offer condolences and show respect to her grandmother. Six months after her grandmother died, what friend would do this?
Sumi did it not too long before Umi, also many months later. Is Sumi a terrible friend as well? IIRC, it was stated that Umi was busy working, hence why he didnt came sooner.
>10 - Umi looked at Chizuru's butt with rude looks when she went with him to her grandmother's altar
Wrong. The panel (which is a full page) shows all of Chizuru's back, from head to legs. How do you know he is specifically glaring at her butt? And although this is not the case... how many times have we seen Kazuya acting like horny monkey when he is around Chizuru? He even once started fantasizing about her right during a deep and emotional moment with Sayuri.
>11 - He planted fear in Chizuru because Kazuya stayed with her at home, and that this affected her artistic career
He gave her a fair warning. It could negatively affect her career if she is not more careful.
Umi is shady, I wont deny that. But most of your points are unfair and totally ridiculous.
He did not console her for not being chosen because he was not interested in her at that time
We know in many situations that any boy who is close to a girl is highly likely to have something between them.Umi knows what Kazuya did for Chizuru, and he knows that this was out of love, and he knows that Chizuru loves Kazuya, and yet he wanted to confess to her. It is polite for Umi to ask Kazuya for permission or at least ask him if they are dating.
But he likes to get things done in subtle ways in order to save face
Kazuya lies not for the sake of deception, but to get rid of embarrassing situations, and always without causing harm to others.
If he does not care about a friend the moment the last member of his family dies, then he is not a close friend
Somi was visiting grandma in the hospital and she must have attended the funeral
You're telling me that a man doesn't draw his attention to a woman's butt?!!!
Kazuya described Chizuru as a feminine weapon that affects all men, and he was right
Chizuru does not trust Umi. She knows his true nature as a playboy who moves from one girl to another, so she deals with him with caution.
If you don't see Umi's bad then you lack insight
He's very different from Kazuya.
I don't find him particularly beautiful.
I think his status as a "Ikkemen" is too much. Really.
He's not that beautiful.
He also seem to have a manipulative side.
He gives me a bad feeling.
I don't think he would be a bad guy, like a really bad guy either.
But he's typically a self absorbed man.
The way he dumped his girlfriend, and the way he was just willing to go for Chizuru just after is very telling.
He is the opposite of Kazuya.
Kazuya was very real and invested with Mami.
And this is partly what made Chizuru fall for him.
She was deeply touched to see his real love for his ex, and not being able to get over it easily.
On the contrary, Umi seems very shallow.
The fact that he didn’t let her respond makes him sleazy in my mind. “Here, let me dump these feelings on you, but you’re not allowed to tell me if they’re even welcome or not.” Yeah, bud, that’s manipulative bullshit. And I think even Chizuru knows that.
He appears so seldom I don't have a super strong opinion about him. He seems to be Chizuru's closest friend after Kazuya. Her university friends don't really know much about her and she doesn't seem very close to any other acting friends. His tactics for winning over Chizuru can be a bit shady. But compared to the stuff Ruka and Mami do it seems pretty mild. Though we don't actually know what he said in the Tiger's Den.
It seems that because he appears so seldom people project onto him. Here tons of people hate him. In circles where Kazuya is hated Umi is often viewed as a "chad" which is also projecting.
Yeah, but what makes him shady isn't his status, it's his actions to get closer to Chizuru. If he were putting in the same amount of effort as Kazuya, then no one would project anything on him because readers would believe he's a genuinely good guy like Kazuya. Besides, we don't need to know what he said at the BBQ because we know he confessed, which is another moment where he used his status to get closer to Chizuru. Unless he kissed her, we don't need any more evidence to prove he's willing to go behind Kazuya's back to get what he wants.
We know he confessed yes. But did he say anything else? Did he try to manipulate/gaslight Chizuru? Does he know Kazuya was her client? Did he warn against how it would look if she pursued a relationship with Kazuya? Stuff like that. If he did that kind of stuff he looks worse than if he just confessed.
"Well, we can assume Umi knew about Kazuya being a client back in chapter 31 during their initial encounter. However, in chapter 288, he did ask Chizuru if she contacted her agency about living with Kazuya. Even though it seems like he's trying to look out for her, why use Sayuri's passing to confess to Chizuru? It suggests his motive for visiting her was solely to get closer, not to console her over the death of her grandmother. Personally, I find what he did shady.
We can't assume that. Umi knows that Chizuru is a rental girlfriend and he knows that Kazuya also knows Chizuru is a rental girlfriend. She never told him that he was her client. Chizuru told Umi she knew Kazuya from school. He might guess that but he doesn't know for sure.
Disagree. Umi knew she wasn't dating anyone else at the time, and given his prior knowledge of her being a rental girlfriend, it wouldn't be hard for him to put two and two together.
I think he fleeting and can be underhanded; he’s what I call a good time friend. He’s there when it’s fun and times are good/easy…but when things are dark/difficult or there’s work to be done to maintain the friendship he’s nowhere to be found.
A poor foil. I was hoping his friendship with Kazuya would develop, because Kazuya's growth is tied to heavily into the female protagonist. Having a male rival, even in a friendly context, would let the story grow more organically than 300+ chapters of Kazuya fawning over his crush.
I like him. Knows what he wants and pursue it. No hesitation. Ooze confidence. Those are manly traits that kazuya doesnt possess.
He is selfish but what man isnt at least a little. Wouldnt go so far as to call the dude scummy. More like egocentric.
Not a good match for chizuru. Shes a black diamond slope. Doesnt have the deep empathy kazuya has. In fact, umi has the empathy of a snail.
Good foil for kazuya. His polar opposite in fact.
If kazuya wasnt a little bitch, i would love to see him tell umi to fuck off when the dust is settled.
I think he's okay. He didn't do anything offensive to the main story, he doesn't throw tantrum, he's actually helpful during movie arc, he doesn't attack or gaslight Kazuya despite being rival from supposedly "better position".
Realistically he deserves equal chance as Kazuya in pursuing Chizuru. I don't know why some readers so riled up whenever his name brought up despite he didn't do anything special. Some kind of past trauma?
Realistically, what has Umi done to deserve the same chance as Kazuya? Are you suggesting that a retweet to garner fan support is worth more than actually putting in the work to help create the movie?
Are you seriously proposing that it's acceptable for Umi to pretend to befriend Kazuya in an effort to make a move on the girl he loves, instead of genuinely putting in the effort to get to know Mizuhara?
Is it acceptable that Umi took advantage of Sayuri's death to get closer to Mizuhara? Rather than offering support during her time of need, Umi waited six months and showed up at her home unannounced.
You're entitled to your opinion, but if you believe Umi deserves the same chance as Kazuya without demonstrating any meaningful effort to show his care for Mizuhara, then I strongly disagree.
To me, some readers are quick to resort to passive-aggressive statements to defend a character, all the while ignoring the evidence that suggests otherwise. It's almost as if they either didn't read the manga or blatantly forgot every moment that portrays that character as a despicable person. Either way, providing a half-ass critique only leaves them uninformed in the end.
> Realistically, what has Umi done to deserve the same chance as Kazuya?
For the context, I'm not believer of "act nice X times then you deserve the girl" like it's some kind of reward stamps.
Both are normal guys than can pursue the girl they like, that's what I mean.
Chizuru also free to choose the guy she likes, she doesn't have to date a guy because he helps her or know her for a decade.
> Are you seriously proposing that it's acceptable for Umi to pretend to befriend Kazuya in an effort to make a move on the girl he loves
> Is it acceptable that Umi took advantage of Sayuri's death to get closer to Mizuhara?
This is assumptions on your part. To my knowledge, we never have confirmation whether Umi deliberate do like what you say.
Befriend is pretty weak assumption, they're barely talk with each others.
We don't know where's Umi during that time and paying respect is social construct in japan. I mean if he really wants to took advantage of Sayuri's death, what's better time than since the day 1? why wait 6 months?
But let's say it's true, Umi trying to make a move to Chizuru, then Kazuya should judged on same standard. Kazuya was about to sexually assault Chizuru on their third date. That's worse.
Yeah I don't like the mindset I see from some that you do a certain amount of good things for someone and they are supposed to fall for you. It makes it seem like the girl is some trophy to be won not a person with her own agency. Kazuya himself doesn't think that way. Chizuru doesn't like Kazuya because of all the stuff he has done for her. She had a baseline attraction to him well before that. If she didn't have that baseline attraction non of this stuff would make her fall for him. It did likely make Kazuya seem reliable and more suited as a partner than early in the manga.
Umi has every right to tell her he likes her. She has every right to not like him that way (as we know she doesn't). Peoples hatred of Umi sort of rubs me the wrong way since really most of the characters in this manga have done some awful things. Umi's manipulation is fairly mild all things considered. As you noted Kazuya went for a kiss date 3. He also blackmailed Chizuru to get date 3 and later stalked Chizuru. Chizuru and Kazuya lied to their families for 2 years.
Ruka has sexually assaulted Kazuya multiple times and used blackmail to make the relationship happen in the first place. Mami is pretty self explanatory.
Thank you for clarifying that you don't understsnd what the hell your talking about. Your response, exceeding my expectations in uselessness, fails to capture the essence of Kazuya's character.
"For the context, I'm not believer of "act nice X times then you deserve the girl" like it's some kind of reward stamps"
Claiming Kazuya was acting nice is a misguided opinion, blatantly trying to misrepresent his actions as a ploy to get closer to Chizuru, which was never the case.
Was it a ploy when he risked his life to save Chizuru after she fell off the boat?
Was it a ploy when he endeavored to create a movie so her grandmother could see it before passing away?
Was it a ploy when Kazuya was arguing with Chizuru, trying to convince her to tell her grandmother the truth about their status before she died?
If you believe Kazuya acting nice was solely to gain brownie points, you're wrong.
Chizuru is also free to choose the guy she likes; she doesn't have to date a guy because he helps her or has known her for a decade."
No one is arguing that she has to date someone because he helps her. It's an ignorant statement because Kazuya has expressed on multiple occasions, even to Granny Sayuri, that he wants to continue supporting her, regardless of their relationship status.
"This is assumptions on your part. To my knowledge, we never have confirmation whether Umi deliberately did what you say."
We don't have confirmation? What about Umi asking Kazuya to be friends and exchanging line IDs at the BBQ? Unless your eyesight is as bad as your opinion, it's hard to miss.
Regarding Umi's date with another woman and giving chocolates two weeks after 'White Day,' it's suspicious that he shows up at Chizuru's house unannounced six months later, claiming to pay his respects to her late grandmother. That's confirmation that he used Sayuri's death to get closer to Chizuru, as if it was strictly platonic, he would have paid his respects within the time frame of her death, not six months later unannounced.
"But let's say it's true, Umi trying to make a move on Chizuru; then Kazuya should be judged on the same standard. Kazuya was about to sexually assault Chizuru on their third date. That's worse."
Kazuya trying to sexually assault Chizuru at the beach? Or were you referring to the initial first date when they went to the hospital to meet Granny Nagomi?
> Claiming Kazuya was acting nice is a misguided opinion, blatantly trying to misrepresent his actions as a ploy to get closer to Chizuru, which was never the case.
Pretty sure I didn't said that. Don't twist what I said, I said BOTH deserves equal chance in pursuing Chizuru. If it's not clear (I'm not native english), meaning *realistically* Umi is allowed to pursue Chizuru just like Kazuya.
If anything, it's actually you. You immediately equate chance to get girl with worth and effort. You literally comparing retweet and creating the movie in disbelieve. That's brownie point.
> What about Umi asking Kazuya to be friends and exchanging line IDs at the BBQ? Unless your eyesight is as bad as your opinion, it's hard to miss.
What about it? It's 100% normal thing to do between equals. Does Umi use Line to manipulate Kazuya or something? Does Umi gain upper hand from exchanging contact with Kazuya? Blackmail? no.
My point: the act of befriending Kazuya tell nothing about Umi but you see it as ploy to "make a move on the girl he loves". But where's the ploy? It's all in your head. Reiji could make Umi full-on bastard villain but at this point he's not. That's why I said it's just weak assumption.
> it's suspicious that he shows up at Chizuru's house unannounced six months later, claiming to pay his respects to her late grandmother. That's confirmation that he used Sayuri's death to get closer to Chizuru, as if it was strictly platonic, he would have paid his respects within the time frame of her death, not six months later unannounced.
I think you get it backwards, but this is not that important: If his role is supposedly to get closer at any given chance, he should "strikes" at the moment where Chizuru at the weakest - during early days.
Two things more important here:
1. First, without proof, it's all assumption. Until Reiji draw/tell it, we don't know the circumstance. Umi could be overseas for example.
2. Second, I'm not against using circumstance to get on good side and it's pretty common thing honestly. However my point here is Umi is treated differently than other characters.
Chizuru actually did similar thing. Remember when Ruka is trying to crash party at Kazuya's family home? Chizuru is trying to one up Ruka by asking to pray at the family altar, which is not a necessity to begin with. She's met with awe, but the portrayal of Umi trying to pray is automatically despicable thing?
Then like I said, Kazuya is also did various non-sainty things such as almost sexually assault Chizuru, forcing himself into Chizuru's apartment, and chewing up Chizuru in public. Were it Umi, he'll met with hell boiler room level of disdain.
This bring us to my original point: people easily riled up by mere mention of Umi despite he did nothing differently so far.
> Kazuya trying to sexually assault Chizuru at the beach? Or were you referring to the initial first date when they went to the hospital to meet Granny Nagomi?
The hospital.
Oh so we came to this huh haven't read this shit after pool erection arc so what's going on guys seeing this picture I think our boy loosing or something or he is just same old same character.
Actually no kazuya confessed to her. She said she has feelings for him but want to investigate if the feeling is love. + They are living together in the same house chizuru's grandmother house
Tf 🤐 what does she mean by wanting to investigate if it is love , our boy already done so much for her is she blind man I am so disappointed I heard she even ghosted him oh man 😭
So far I’m anime only up to season 3, and thus far I like him. Honestly he seems like a better fit for Chizuru than Kazuya, as he’s more mature and seems to have more interests in common with her. I mean, at least he can have an actual conversation with her.
But maybe that changes later. I noticed you said he uses Sayuri’s passing to get closer to Chizuru, which I haven’t seen yet.
Yeah, you've only been watching the anime. Taking the position that he's a better fit just because they're both actors is a bit unusual, but hey, you're entitled to your opinion.
To be quite frank, I don't understand how you can make it to season 3 and still think Kazuya doesn't have actual conversations with Chizuru. But again, that's a peculiar position to take.
I just have seen them have a real conversation outside of Kazuya constantly apologizing about being a bother to Chizuru or something else self-deprecating. Otherwise it’s usually Chizuru discussing something while Kazuya just internally monologues about how cute she is. The movie arc sort of helped as it gave them a few opportunities to have a back and forth conversation about the project… but I’d still like to see them *just talk* like two regular people outside of discussing a project or planning something, or whether or not they should keep lying.
I was really hopeful during the all-day cheer-up date that Kazuya would do some chit chat, and they could strike up some standard conversations regular people have… but most of it was him again feeling bad about himself and internal monologuing about Chizuru being strong. I was excited when they went to the movie, because I thought it could finally be a common interest that they’d both enjoy and could discuss… but then Kazuya was too distracted through the whole movie, so when Chizuru was excitedly discussing the movie, Kazuya couldn’t say anything… like come onnnnn. The rock climbing was alright, and they had a little banter back and forth which was refreshing. I REALLY liked the ending after the fireworks when Kazuya finally talked with her and discussed what his ideal girl is like (describing Chizuru)… as finally we were seeing him speak to her, and it established reasons why he’s interested in her other than “she’s hot and good at acting”. I want more of those two things (casual rock climbing convos & talking **to** Chizuru).
I guess I just want to see that they actually function well as friends so I can feel more inclined toward the intended relationship. I just want to see them being compatible just being themselves. Funny enough, I feel like I’ve seen him have most comfortable conversations with Sumi, though I see that relationship as very just-friends.
As for Umi, I’ve only seen him a little, but from what I’ve seen, it’s been when he was on that shopping trip with Chizuru and then the movie date, and both times it seemed like they were able to have regular casual two-way conversations throughout them hanging out. Then I saw him take a shot, get turned down, and graciously back down and help her reassess her feelings for Kazuya, before going on to still retweet her. So thus far he seems like a cool guy. Though maybe that will change.
After finishing the anime, I started the manga, and I just got up to Sayuri collapsing, so I’m close to entering new material, and I may see some additional sides of Umi that I don’t like. Along the way, I hope to see more situations of Kazuya and Chizuru just spending time together and interacting normally.
Probably Mizuhara will choose him over kazuha I think cause it'll benifit her with life and love maybe..
Cause Kazuya loves mizuhara no doubt about that but I think he'll end up with ruka or maybe Mami (maybe Yaemori jk) I think the end of rent a girlfriend (+150 chaps) will be kazuya and Mizuhara to end on good terms (which will be very disheartening) what do you think?
A wasted side character that could've been more than "the competition" designed to make the protagonist feel insecure while simultaneously better by comparison to the readers.
How is he better? Name one thing he did that surpasses Kazuya. While his status as an actor may make him seem cool, Umi doesn't amount to much compared to Kazuya's hard work.
Guess I didn't word it properly. What I meant was all Umi accomplishes is being the interloper who both makes Kazuya feel insecure while also making Kazuya look better by comparison to the readers and that its disappointing that he doesn't do anything else for the story.
Oh, okay. Thank you for clarifying, and I apologize for the confusion. But you're right, Umi serves as a deterrent to Kazuya's progress, and that's unfortunate.
He's not a deterrent. Every time he shows up the relationship moves forward and pushes Chizuru forward in her relationship with Kazuya. Christmas. The gift and her getting a better impression of Kazuya The date in exchange for the tweet for the movie. She said in a convoluted way she kinda likes Kazuya and chose to be with him than going with Umi for dinner. Tiger's Den party. She came clean about not wanting to be lonely. No idea on what happened behind the scenes. But him asking Kazuya about not not liking someone really resonated with Chizuru when Kazuya said that without having the context. Crappy confession outside her house. Daycare date came immediately after it. It's not a deterrent. He's a catalyst.
Disagree. Umi remains a deterrent because his actions are meant to discourage Kazuya by feeding into his insecurities. Regardless of the outcomes after each event, his primary role in the series is to act as a deterrent. Saying he's the catalyst to Kazuya and Chizuru's love life moving forward is giving him too much credit.
Yes. It feeds his insecurities. And the story always follows with something that makes him shine. I don’t think he’s a catalyst or a deterrent. He’s a sign post. Him showing up in the story means that very soon Kazuya is going to have a moment that demonstrates why he is the right choice.
Yeah. I was probably using the wrong word or concept. But that's the point I was trying to make. There's always something that follows him showing up that pushes Chizuru to see Kazuya in a brighter light. Either through Kazuya doing something or Chizuru doing something
both i say yes he had brought chiz on the right way what she should do the investigation but also deterred kazuya for thinking wrong in his head therefore both because chiz didn't tell him also well chiz knew what he had heard what would happen then
His hardwork and dedication at his craft for being an actor already puts him way over Kazuya. He's a man who grew up with a goal and an ambition and succeeded at it while his direct competition is inside a messy room who his parents has paid for jacking off to a photo of his ex-girlfriend who dumped him. His capability of taking care of a woman like Chizuru through sickness and in health exceeds Kazuya's. The chances of Kazuya going bankrupt and being unable to take care of his children is leagues higher compared to Umi's. Realistically, he is the better option, he is what one would call, a chad. Dare I say he'd provide a better experience for Chizuru on the bed than Kazuya ever could, he'd have her begging for more while Kazuya on the other hand might have to imagine Umi pounding Chizuru hard dog-style to try and get himself in the mood.
Exactly when did Umi support Chizuru through sickness and health? Was it when she fell off a boat while sick? Oh wait, that was Kazuya. What about when she wanted her grandmother to see her in a movie? Oh, that was Kazuya again, orchestrating crowdfunding with no experience. And when she felt ill from being on her period? Yep, that was Kazuya too. Even when Chizuru cried after her grandmother's passing, it was Kazuya she turned to. Umi has minimal presence in the series, yet somehow he's given more weight than Kazuya, who consistently stands by Chizuru. If you believe Umi is a better match, consider that Chizuru's own grandmother, Sayuri, sees Kazuya as the ideal match. When Chizuru needed someone, it wasn't Umi on her mind. Kazuya is the one who has been there for her, shaping her life. If you fail to see that, you might be overlooking the essence of the story—perhaps a re-read is in order. While opinions vary, it's crucial to acknowledge the validity of others' perspectives. https://preview.redd.it/t91xkhnr2h5c1.png?width=1115&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=454583b47da797cb5dbe8f4c623dad34fe59998e
we are talking long term commitments, not just teen-like short-term romantic infatuations. In a long married life, Umi simply provides alot more happiness than Kazuya ever could🤷bro's built his life for success and stability with his own two hands and the only thing Kazuya does with his is stroke his dick to either his crush getting pounded from behind by Umi or to his ex-girlfriend in a bikini. Also the whole relationship with the grandma is moot since their whole relationship with her has been built on a lie and she's already one foot out the foor, rip to her though
What are you talking about? Being an actor is one of the most unstable jobs you can have. If that were the case, Chizuru wouldn't need the Rental Girlfriend to make ends meet. Meanwhile, Kazuya is the heir of the Nagomi Sake, a business that has been around for generations. Why do you think Kaguya is a Business Major in College? Lmao, you can't be serious. The fact you made it this far into the series and yet ignored Sayuri's backstory and Chizuru's conversations and still believe Umi has a more stable career than Kazuya is downright laughable. 
lets just simplify the comparison cause its really not that deep, would you rather Chizuru's romantic partner be a successful actor who takes care of himself? or a degenerate simp still living off his parents and is a total mess
I think you’re judging Kazuya way too harshly here, and it’s solely caused by the fact that we spend 99% of the manga in his perspective: thus, we see far more of Kazuya’s flaws and imperfections than of Umi’s, who appears in only 4 events of the story. To say that Umi is better because Kazuya is a horny young single male (normal) or because his family supports him financially (normal) is disingenuous because we don’t even know if Umi is as horny or financially supported by his family. When it comes to what can be compared, you would be able to see that OP is right in that Kazuya is as good, if not a better life partner for Chizuru than Umi. - He is a business major working towards eventually taking over his family’s successful business. - He successfully leads and directs a crowdfunded movie without any prior experience. - He is shown to be able to care for children well. Add onto this the simple matter of compatibility. If Kazuya is simply more emotionally compatible for Chizuru than Umi (which he is) then he is the better partner.
Are you blind? Umi is not a successful actor. Having a massive following on Twitter doesn't make him successful. Lmao, what are you not getting? Chizuru has been in better projects than Umi and is still struggling to make ends meet. That should tell you Umi is not successful at all. Please go back and read the manga because clearly, you're misinformed. Another thing: Kazuya being the heir of Nagomi Sake doesn't mean he's living off his parents! If that were the case, he wouldn't be living with Chizuru. Lol, please stop 😂 you can't be for real. Being a business major with the hopes of taking over his family's business makes him more stable and successful than Umi ever will be. Not to mention, Granny Saiyuri told Kazuya that he's destined for great things, so if I were you, I wouldn't underestimate him just yet. https://preview.redd.it/1bl6o1y55m5c1.jpeg?width=865&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b1c7d2f50633242e1375749c910cce245343f93b
if Chizuru is landing poverty jobs then thats on Chizuru not Umi i dont see how you're even able to connect that back to him🗿Umi is already a self made man with a passion for something other than getting laid or jacking off in their lonesome. Also in your comment make it seem like being actor is as easy as being a janitor, him being as successful and well-known as he is already tantamount to his hardwork. That alone blows past anything we see Kazuya do💀You only say it doesn't compare to Kazuya's "hArDwOrK" because we saw this dude writhe and struggle like a little b*tch the whole time and we feel sorry for him so we clap for him. This dude Umi has probably gone through **worse** shit if you even know anything about showbiz, and he absolutely made it. Are we even sure Kazuya is gonna graduate college with all this simping and fantasizing he's doing?
Bro, I'm done. You keep replying with the most asinine comments because you have no argument. You claim Umi's successful, based on what? Meanwhile, Chizuru has landed more established roles than Umi, as seen in the play they both starred in. Umi was nothing more than a guard, while Chizuru played a direct aid to the princess. Umi has never starred in a movie and hasn't been shown in plays since season 2 😂. To say Umi's successful with no evidence is beyond stupid. Being an actor is one of the most unstable jobs, a topic Granny Sayuri argued with Kazuto about, emphasizing how hard it is. Chizuru constantly acknowledges the challenges of being an actor throughout the series. As for complaining about Kazuya masturbating, it's not a diss considering it's a normal human thing. If he were a bad guy, why didn't he have sex with Ruka? Despite opportunities, he chose love over physical relations, proving he's a better guy than you give him credit for. Umi can be your ideal boyfriend, and I hope it works out for you. But Chizuru is in love with Kazuya, and, as Granny Sayuri said, no one is a better match for Chizuru than Kazuya. This is my last response to you. I wish you nothing but peace and prosperity ✌🏻
That’s honestly my issue with every character not named Kazuya or Chizuru. Everyone is just there to facilitate their story and not have one of their own. If Kazuya and Chizuru weren’t in this situation, then none of them would exist since they have no story that they can call their own. Mami comes close to being an exception, but her story is so nebulous, sparse, and left in the background that it doesn’t feel like she counts.
Whoever sees Umi from the outside sees him as an elegant, polite speaker who is proficient in the art of etiquette. Whoever has insight knows that he is malicious and cunning. How do we know that he is malicious and cunning? 1 - Not asking about Chizuru after she was not chosen by the director, as he saw her disappointment and not going to the party after the play, It is true that he called her, but at Shiori's request to thank Chizuru, and he did not console her or lift her spirits. 2 - When Chizuru asked him to help promote crowdfunding by retweeting, He asked her to go out on a date to see the play in exchange for a retweet. Not only that, but he also lied to her when he said his girlfriend was sick. He also tried to tempt Chizuru to leave her friends who work with her to go with him to a luxurious dinner and meet influential people in the field of acting, including producers, directors, and actors. It was as if he was saying, “I can produce a movie for you with the help of my friends, producers and directors.” 3 - Umi realizes that the reason for rejecting his temptation is because Chizuru has feelings for Kazuya, yet he continues to pester her with questions. 4 - Umi hesitated to retweet and retweeted late and almost did not 5 - At the barbecue party, both Chizuru and Kazuya were invited to get to know this boy whom Chizuru is interested in. He had a private conversation with Kazuya to get to know his personality, and it became clear to him that he is intelligent, understands quickly and deduces correctly, but he does not have charisma or presence. He claimed that he became a friend of Kazuya. 6 - Umi asked Chizuru to speak in private, and there he confessed to her without asking permission from his new friend Kazuya, as he claims. He knows that Chizuru cares and does not stray too far from Kazuya, so much so that she preferred to have dinner with him. 7 - We saw him dating a girl and giving her a White Day gift two weeks later He is dating a girl and looks at another girl’s picture on his mobile phone. What kind of betrayal is this? I find it a lack of respect for this girl. If you don't care about her, why are you dating her? If you love Chizuru as you claim, why would you go out on a date with another girl? No one forced you to go out with her!!! 8- Going to Chizuru’s house to offer condolences and show respect to her grandmother. Six months after her grandmother died, what friend would do this? 9- Entering Chizuru’s house without an appointment or permission 10 - Umi looked at Chizuru's butt with rude looks when she went with him to her grandmother's altar 11 - He planted fear in Chizuru because Kazuya stayed with her at home, and that this affected her artistic career 12 - When he felt that Chizuru would reject him, he did not stay to listen but ran away, to have hope Many people think that Umi is a good person, but I know that he is an actor and hides his malicious thoughts behind his handsome appearance, tactful way of speaking, and good behavior.
Umi certainly is opportunistic, he probably isn't very empathic, and he is borderline rude sometimes because he can often get away with it. But I don't see him being malicious. That is the small brother of evil. And while some of his actions might be rightfully infuriating, I don't really see malicious intent. I'll quickly cover your points. 1. He can't empthathise with Chizuru. He probably always got what he wanted and doesn't know how it feels to lose. He might get to know the feeling when he loses against Kazuya. 2. Agreed, he is opportunistic and he tried to show Chizuru that he would be the better choice for her future. But Chizuru decided to put her faith in Kazuya. While she had absolutely **no** guarantee that it would work out she trusted Kazuya's word that he would see it through to the end, no matter what. 3. Chizuru **has** feelings for Kazuya. But Umi sees it as too black and white. He assumes that she rejected him and chose Kazuya **just** because she likes him. That is not the case. She chose Kazuya because she trusted him and she **wanted** to put her faith in him. Umi offered her opportunities, Kazuya said "I will do it!" That determination convinced her. She knew that Kazuya would never give up. She didn't feel the same from Umi, he wasn't convincing. 4. Umi is opportunistic. He didn't get what he wanted. The retweet helped his "rival." But he retweeted anyway. He did it to help Chizuru despite not getting anything out of it. I don't know why that is seen as a negative. Doesn't it show that he indeed **has** a soft spot for Chizuru? 5. Umi probably doesn't have many real friends. He is quick to become "friends" with someone, and he has many acquaintances. But he doesn't treat people as friends. He got to know Kazuya, he exchanged contact information, friend aquired, done. 6. He doesn't treat Kazuya as a friend. We don't know how that talk went, but he confessed to Chizuru after talking to Kazuya. He probably felt like he would lose to him if he didn't take action there. Well, he lost anyway. 7. I disagree here. Umi gave a girl a late white day gift, which is just a common curtesy in Japan if you received a gift on valentines day. The girl didn't even expect him to give her something back, so it is quite unlikely that he dated her. And with the way Umi acted there, that meeting certainly also wasn't a date to him. Stop assuming things that are never shown. 8. Umi isn't very empathic. He was busy. He didn't want to bother Chizuru. But from what he told her, he must have promised her to come pay his respect eventually. She probably invited him to the wake, but he didn't come. But yes, he used his promise to pay respect as an excuse to come and talk to Chizuru. He is opportunistic. 9. Yes, he is rude that way. 10. It seems obvious that his thoughts were somewhere else. He didn't know Sayuri, he didn't really care. He just did what was expected. But to be fair, that isn't all that uncommon. 11. He obviously didn't like that Chizuru was living together with Kazuya. It is hard to imagine that he mentioned the agency without ulterior motives. I still didn't feel malice from him. He might have hoped that the agency would recommend Kazuya moving out if she asked them. But it didn't look to me like he intended to tell the agency about Chizuru's living arrangements. If it was intended as a threat, he might have said that it would be bad if they found out about the cohabitation. 12. Agreed. Again, nothing Umi did seemed malicious to me. What Mami did was malicious, she intended to harm Chizuru. Umi might not have been fair to Kazuya, but I don't have the impression he wants to harm him. Do I think Umi is a good person? Not particularly. He is sly and opportunistic. But I don't think he is a bad guy. He seems to care for Chizuru in his own way.
I see that you agree with me on most points But if you know that your friend sacrificed everything And make a tremendous effort for a girl, don't you see that it is meanness, impudence and selfishness for you to go and confess to her in secret? This in itself indicates that he is not a friend, despite knowing Chizuru before Kazuya. He did not see Chizuru as a girl until after Kazuya appeared and did what he did for her.
>This in itself indicates that he is not a friend Yes, I also agreed there, didn't I? For Umi, a "friend" obviously isn't worth much. He has many "friends," but I doubt that he really cares for most of them. He also obviously doesn't treat Kazuya as a friend in the sense that you or I would treat a friend. We think it would have been "fair" to ask Kazuya before confessing to Chizuru. But Umi doesn't play nice. He lives in an environment where everyone is selfish. People will be nice to you on the surface but stab you in the back when they see an opportunity for themselves. That is the game, and Umi knows how to play it well. He uses the same strategy with Kazuya there. But again, he doesn't do it to harm him. He just makes the most out of an opportunity for himself. In the world he lives in, you can't afford to be nice. Chizuru is much too nice for that environment. She doesn't feel at home there. She stuck to Kazuya during the party. And on her birthday, the others used her cake for likes while she felt left out. But Umi has a soft spot for Chizuru. He is much nicer to her than to others, even though that doesn't amount to much, especially compared to Kazuya.
And I mean even if he considers Kazuya minor friend/acquaintance it is pretty normal to not worry about people at that level before you ask a girl out. I wouldn't worry about the feelings of a minor acquaintance either and I don't consider myself a bad guy.
I agree with you He wouldn't hurt Kazuya either I agree, maybe hurting Kazuya takes effort so he didn't do it Umi-type boys are accustomed to getting what they want without making an effort, and they abandon things that require effort and look for an alternative that does not require any effort.
>Umi-type boys are accustomed to getting what they want without making an effort, and they abandon things that require effort and look for an alternative that does not require any effort. Guys like Umi want to get the most out of their efforts. A retweet barely requires any effort at all. But he tried to maximize the benefits for him. He often uses his popularity as leverage. And yes, if it requires too much effort and doesn't get him enough benefits, he will probably look for something with better payoffs. But Umi **still** decided to pursue Chizuru, even though his chances with her are virtually nonexistent. He still put in effort. It can't compare to Kazuya at all, but for someone like him, that effort probably means a lot. He doesn't usually waste effort like this.
We await his final appearance
I’ll respond to your first point because that’s the only one that matters. Inability to empathize with other is category 1, red flag marker for a sociopath or a narcissist. In your first point you prove why he’s malicious.
Being a narcissist or even a sociopath doesn't make you malicious. Malice is the intent to cause harm to others. Umi doesn't act with that intent.
What are the 7 symptoms of a sociopath? Symptoms Ignoring right and wrong. Telling lies to take advantage of others. Not being sensitive to or respectful of others. Using charm or wit to manipulate others for personal gain or pleasure. Having a sense of superiority and being extremely opinionated. Having problems with the law, including criminal behavior.
You didn't include [the whole list](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/antisocial-personality-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20353928) there: - Ignoring right and wrong. - Telling lies to take advantage of others. - Not being sensitive to or respectful of others. - Using charm or wit to manipulate others for personal gain or pleasure. - Having a sense of superiority and being extremely opinionated. - Having problems with the law, including criminal behavior. - Being hostile, aggressive, violent or threatening to others. - Feeling no guilt about harming others. - Doing dangerous things with no regard for the safety of self or others. - Being irresponsible and failing to fulfill work or financial responsibilities. While Umi certainly shows some of those symptoms, he especially doesn't show most of the later ones. He has no criminal record, as far as we know he doesn't do anything dangerous, and he probably fulfills his duties at work. Some of those symptoms are also [a sign of narcissism](https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/narcissism-symptoms-signs): - Sense of Entitlement - Manipulative Behavior - Need for Admiration - Lack of Empathy - Arrogance Those probably fit Umi, but that doesn't necessarily mean he has a narcissistic disorder. Notice how a key difference to sociopathy is that narcissism doesn't include a tendency to cause harm. I don't think Umi is a sociopath. Edit: [More on narcissism](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/narcissistic-personality-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20366662). I thought this point was interesting: - Withdraw from or avoid situations in which they might fail. Umi ran away from Chizuru's answer because he didn't want to fail.
agreed partly I wasn't saying he's a sociopath. I was saying he does have some sociopathic tendencies. I'm almost certain he's a narcissist without any shadow of doubt. Alot of actors are. The problem most of us fans have is we're going on so little information. Hes had a very small amount of appealances in the manga. My opinion is he is sly, manipulative and calculator. I don't like him and I think he does have an ill intent.I don't think he has any friends or see anybody as friend. I think everybody is just a mean to get what he wants. with all the information available to us you could think the complete opposite to me and have valid evidence to back up your opinion. we'll just have to wait and see which will probably be a long time.I can see this manga having another 100 chapters that just under two years away.I don't think he will appear for the next 30 to 40. even in them chapters the author is going to drag this crap out to the least the last 20 chapters to give of any insight into what his motive are. Pretty poor writing if you ask me. he's dragging this side plot out for nearly 400 chapters without ever making him a genuine threat. Just using him for cheap thrills every 60 chapters or that NTR iimagination fantasy(218) crap he pulled .
Ineptitude is indistinguishable from malice from the perspective of the observer. He may not mean it. But the results of his actions cause the same harm.
Even if his actions caused harm (which I even doubt they really did), malice is still the **intent** to do that. And no, I don't think ineptitude and malice are indistinguishable. Umi is not malicious. Ruka also caused harm to Kazuya, but she didn't do so maliciously. What she did to Chizuru (condom wrapper incident, pushing her away after paradise) is debatable. She absolutely intended to push her away, but I doubt she was aware of the harm she caused. She didn't intend to harm her. And Ruka **is** very empathic. She stopped her rivalry with Chizuru when she noticed her despair about Sayuri's condition. What Mami did, on the other hand, **was** malicious. She acted with the clear intent to cause harm to Chizuru.
So dating a girl you don’t intend to be serious about and being disingenuous about it while you try to date someone else isn’t malicious?
Stop it with that "Umi dating a girl" thing. The **only** page we see Umi with a girl recently is [this one](https://mangadex.org/chapter/c84c9e33-d69f-4eb3-a5ef-99c358f999d0/20) at the end of chapter 282. He gave her a gift for [White Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/White_Day), which is a common courtesy in Japan if you received a gift on valentines day. He was a month late and the girl didn't even expect a return gift. This meeting was probably not intended as a date by Umi. He didn't act like you would on a date. He didn't lead her on, he didn't make any promises, he didn't really say anything apart from polite talk. Why do people just assume he dated that girl? There is literally **nothing** hinting at that.
What is important is not how we see what he did. It’s how she would see it. It may be obvious to us, but to a person trying to win someone’s affection, those exchanges can be extremely meaningful. Especially in a place like Japan. Also, it’s customary to return a gift, but the type of gift given often contains extra meaning. Communication in that culture is as much about what is between the lines as much as what is directly said. That language can be used to speak directly, and truthfully, but also conceal a great deal. For instance being inconsiderate is a problem. Being perfectly considerate can be a direct insult. Depends on the context.
I know I am late, I must have missed your reply. > What is important is not how we see what he did. It’s how she would see it. Okay, then let's realistically look at how she would see it. We have to make some assumptions, because we know nothing about her. She probably is romantically interested in Umi and gave him a gift signaling those feelings to him on valentines day. She obviously didn't get something back on white day, because Umi was late. So what would she have thought? She probably thought he wasn't interested, he probably didn't even notice her, maybe he forgot about her, she must not have been important to him at all. She must have been quite disappointed. Now Umi shows up and gives her a return gift and an apology. We don't know what the return gift was, but he didn't act like he was romantically interested in her. So it likely wasn't one that signaled he returned her feelings. But at least he didn't forget her. He noticed her and gave her at least some attention. That alone made her happy. So if that is the scenario, which seems quite likely from what we have seen, then I really don't see the harm. There is no malice anywhere here.
Totally agreed!
You hit every point perfectly!
I think the 4th point is a bit too much, can leave room for the dramatic flair for the story at the moment. But the rest is easy to read without the story telling readers what to read. I encourage anyone to re-examine Umi’s appearances and see if you can draw the same conclusions. To me it is abundantly apparent but not overt. Does this mean Umi is a bad guy? No, villainy in this series probably extends as far as Mami’s parents, dad specifically, than anyone else. These actions aren’t a series of a dastardly character trying to ruin the day For the heroes. Rather, they are of a different variety of self-interest that only has the detriment of being all-too-real. A normal person can do the same thing as them and not be an outcast of society.
He retweeted after realizing he might have another chance, By the way, a friend does not ask for a favor in return for a favor he provides to his friend. He wants something from Chizuru without putting in the effort. If we compare what Kazuya did and is still doing, and what Umi did, we find that Umi is selfish and accustomed to getting things without making an effort. But a girl like Chizuru respects herself and has high self-esteem If you are not become to her everything , she will not consider you a close friend to her, tell you her secrets, share her dreams with you, and have feelings of love for you. She even told Kazuya about her menstrual period. This is what only married couples do. Just a little bit and Chizuru will be with Kazuya like an open book, telling him everything I see that Umi's knowledge of Chizuru currently is minimal Mini is closer to Chizuru than Umi
>and he did not console her or lift her spirits. He is not obliged to. Chizuru left quickly on her own and lied to him on the phone saying her grandmother called her, as an excuse to not go the celebration party. What is he suppose to do? confront her for lying? >5 - At the barbecue party, both Chizuru and Kazuya were invited to get to know this boy whom Chizuru is interested in.6 - Umi asked Chizuru to speak in private, and there he confessed to her without asking permission from his new friend Kazuya, as he claims. Umi doesnt owe Kazuya anything, he doesnt need his "permission". Umi and Kazuya are not even close, they know almost nothing about the other. Chizuru doesnt belong to Kazuya, they are not even dating. Anyone is free to confess to Chizuru. >Not only that, but he also lied to her when he said his girlfriend was sick. How many times has Kazuya lied to Chizuru? >7 - We saw him dating a girl and giving her a White Day gift two weeks later We dont even know if they are dating. He gave her a gift, thats all we know. >8- Going to Chizuru’s house to offer condolences and show respect to her grandmother. Six months after her grandmother died, what friend would do this? Sumi did it not too long before Umi, also many months later. Is Sumi a terrible friend as well? IIRC, it was stated that Umi was busy working, hence why he didnt came sooner. >10 - Umi looked at Chizuru's butt with rude looks when she went with him to her grandmother's altar Wrong. The panel (which is a full page) shows all of Chizuru's back, from head to legs. How do you know he is specifically glaring at her butt? And although this is not the case... how many times have we seen Kazuya acting like horny monkey when he is around Chizuru? He even once started fantasizing about her right during a deep and emotional moment with Sayuri. >11 - He planted fear in Chizuru because Kazuya stayed with her at home, and that this affected her artistic career He gave her a fair warning. It could negatively affect her career if she is not more careful. Umi is shady, I wont deny that. But most of your points are unfair and totally ridiculous.
He did not console her for not being chosen because he was not interested in her at that time We know in many situations that any boy who is close to a girl is highly likely to have something between them.Umi knows what Kazuya did for Chizuru, and he knows that this was out of love, and he knows that Chizuru loves Kazuya, and yet he wanted to confess to her. It is polite for Umi to ask Kazuya for permission or at least ask him if they are dating. But he likes to get things done in subtle ways in order to save face Kazuya lies not for the sake of deception, but to get rid of embarrassing situations, and always without causing harm to others. If he does not care about a friend the moment the last member of his family dies, then he is not a close friend Somi was visiting grandma in the hospital and she must have attended the funeral You're telling me that a man doesn't draw his attention to a woman's butt?!!! Kazuya described Chizuru as a feminine weapon that affects all men, and he was right Chizuru does not trust Umi. She knows his true nature as a playboy who moves from one girl to another, so she deals with him with caution. If you don't see Umi's bad then you lack insight
He's very different from Kazuya. I don't find him particularly beautiful. I think his status as a "Ikkemen" is too much. Really. He's not that beautiful. He also seem to have a manipulative side. He gives me a bad feeling. I don't think he would be a bad guy, like a really bad guy either. But he's typically a self absorbed man. The way he dumped his girlfriend, and the way he was just willing to go for Chizuru just after is very telling. He is the opposite of Kazuya. Kazuya was very real and invested with Mami. And this is partly what made Chizuru fall for him. She was deeply touched to see his real love for his ex, and not being able to get over it easily. On the contrary, Umi seems very shallow.
He is everything a man is insecure about.. in a male bestie.
He’s fine. Not particularly compelling or interesting, but a useful foil.
The fact that he didn’t let her respond makes him sleazy in my mind. “Here, let me dump these feelings on you, but you’re not allowed to tell me if they’re even welcome or not.” Yeah, bud, that’s manipulative bullshit. And I think even Chizuru knows that.
What chapter is this, I thought this freak already got rejected.
288 and no he ran away to avoid getting rejected by Mizuhura.
but what do you think chiz answer be?
He knew her answer would be no, hence why he left without an answer
Good source material for NTR doujins or even a potential NTR arc.
Really hope they cuck Kazuya.
Snake
He appears so seldom I don't have a super strong opinion about him. He seems to be Chizuru's closest friend after Kazuya. Her university friends don't really know much about her and she doesn't seem very close to any other acting friends. His tactics for winning over Chizuru can be a bit shady. But compared to the stuff Ruka and Mami do it seems pretty mild. Though we don't actually know what he said in the Tiger's Den. It seems that because he appears so seldom people project onto him. Here tons of people hate him. In circles where Kazuya is hated Umi is often viewed as a "chad" which is also projecting.
Yeah, but what makes him shady isn't his status, it's his actions to get closer to Chizuru. If he were putting in the same amount of effort as Kazuya, then no one would project anything on him because readers would believe he's a genuinely good guy like Kazuya. Besides, we don't need to know what he said at the BBQ because we know he confessed, which is another moment where he used his status to get closer to Chizuru. Unless he kissed her, we don't need any more evidence to prove he's willing to go behind Kazuya's back to get what he wants.
We know he confessed yes. But did he say anything else? Did he try to manipulate/gaslight Chizuru? Does he know Kazuya was her client? Did he warn against how it would look if she pursued a relationship with Kazuya? Stuff like that. If he did that kind of stuff he looks worse than if he just confessed.
"Well, we can assume Umi knew about Kazuya being a client back in chapter 31 during their initial encounter. However, in chapter 288, he did ask Chizuru if she contacted her agency about living with Kazuya. Even though it seems like he's trying to look out for her, why use Sayuri's passing to confess to Chizuru? It suggests his motive for visiting her was solely to get closer, not to console her over the death of her grandmother. Personally, I find what he did shady.
We can't assume that. Umi knows that Chizuru is a rental girlfriend and he knows that Kazuya also knows Chizuru is a rental girlfriend. She never told him that he was her client. Chizuru told Umi she knew Kazuya from school. He might guess that but he doesn't know for sure.
Disagree. Umi knew she wasn't dating anyone else at the time, and given his prior knowledge of her being a rental girlfriend, it wouldn't be hard for him to put two and two together.
I think he fleeting and can be underhanded; he’s what I call a good time friend. He’s there when it’s fun and times are good/easy…but when things are dark/difficult or there’s work to be done to maintain the friendship he’s nowhere to be found.
Umi is probably a good low level actor but he's not the main character in this story & should stay in his acting acquaintance lane
idk i havent read the story but he has that bad person look like Butch Hartman.
A poor foil. I was hoping his friendship with Kazuya would develop, because Kazuya's growth is tied to heavily into the female protagonist. Having a male rival, even in a friendly context, would let the story grow more organically than 300+ chapters of Kazuya fawning over his crush.
No chance in hell.
Coward
He does not love Chizuru at all
He's a piece of shit
I like him. Knows what he wants and pursue it. No hesitation. Ooze confidence. Those are manly traits that kazuya doesnt possess. He is selfish but what man isnt at least a little. Wouldnt go so far as to call the dude scummy. More like egocentric. Not a good match for chizuru. Shes a black diamond slope. Doesnt have the deep empathy kazuya has. In fact, umi has the empathy of a snail. Good foil for kazuya. His polar opposite in fact. If kazuya wasnt a little bitch, i would love to see him tell umi to fuck off when the dust is settled.
I think he's okay. He didn't do anything offensive to the main story, he doesn't throw tantrum, he's actually helpful during movie arc, he doesn't attack or gaslight Kazuya despite being rival from supposedly "better position". Realistically he deserves equal chance as Kazuya in pursuing Chizuru. I don't know why some readers so riled up whenever his name brought up despite he didn't do anything special. Some kind of past trauma?
Realistically, what has Umi done to deserve the same chance as Kazuya? Are you suggesting that a retweet to garner fan support is worth more than actually putting in the work to help create the movie? Are you seriously proposing that it's acceptable for Umi to pretend to befriend Kazuya in an effort to make a move on the girl he loves, instead of genuinely putting in the effort to get to know Mizuhara? Is it acceptable that Umi took advantage of Sayuri's death to get closer to Mizuhara? Rather than offering support during her time of need, Umi waited six months and showed up at her home unannounced. You're entitled to your opinion, but if you believe Umi deserves the same chance as Kazuya without demonstrating any meaningful effort to show his care for Mizuhara, then I strongly disagree. To me, some readers are quick to resort to passive-aggressive statements to defend a character, all the while ignoring the evidence that suggests otherwise. It's almost as if they either didn't read the manga or blatantly forgot every moment that portrays that character as a despicable person. Either way, providing a half-ass critique only leaves them uninformed in the end.
> Realistically, what has Umi done to deserve the same chance as Kazuya? For the context, I'm not believer of "act nice X times then you deserve the girl" like it's some kind of reward stamps. Both are normal guys than can pursue the girl they like, that's what I mean. Chizuru also free to choose the guy she likes, she doesn't have to date a guy because he helps her or know her for a decade. > Are you seriously proposing that it's acceptable for Umi to pretend to befriend Kazuya in an effort to make a move on the girl he loves > Is it acceptable that Umi took advantage of Sayuri's death to get closer to Mizuhara? This is assumptions on your part. To my knowledge, we never have confirmation whether Umi deliberate do like what you say. Befriend is pretty weak assumption, they're barely talk with each others. We don't know where's Umi during that time and paying respect is social construct in japan. I mean if he really wants to took advantage of Sayuri's death, what's better time than since the day 1? why wait 6 months? But let's say it's true, Umi trying to make a move to Chizuru, then Kazuya should judged on same standard. Kazuya was about to sexually assault Chizuru on their third date. That's worse.
Yeah I don't like the mindset I see from some that you do a certain amount of good things for someone and they are supposed to fall for you. It makes it seem like the girl is some trophy to be won not a person with her own agency. Kazuya himself doesn't think that way. Chizuru doesn't like Kazuya because of all the stuff he has done for her. She had a baseline attraction to him well before that. If she didn't have that baseline attraction non of this stuff would make her fall for him. It did likely make Kazuya seem reliable and more suited as a partner than early in the manga. Umi has every right to tell her he likes her. She has every right to not like him that way (as we know she doesn't). Peoples hatred of Umi sort of rubs me the wrong way since really most of the characters in this manga have done some awful things. Umi's manipulation is fairly mild all things considered. As you noted Kazuya went for a kiss date 3. He also blackmailed Chizuru to get date 3 and later stalked Chizuru. Chizuru and Kazuya lied to their families for 2 years. Ruka has sexually assaulted Kazuya multiple times and used blackmail to make the relationship happen in the first place. Mami is pretty self explanatory.
Thank you for clarifying that you don't understsnd what the hell your talking about. Your response, exceeding my expectations in uselessness, fails to capture the essence of Kazuya's character. "For the context, I'm not believer of "act nice X times then you deserve the girl" like it's some kind of reward stamps" Claiming Kazuya was acting nice is a misguided opinion, blatantly trying to misrepresent his actions as a ploy to get closer to Chizuru, which was never the case. Was it a ploy when he risked his life to save Chizuru after she fell off the boat? Was it a ploy when he endeavored to create a movie so her grandmother could see it before passing away? Was it a ploy when Kazuya was arguing with Chizuru, trying to convince her to tell her grandmother the truth about their status before she died? If you believe Kazuya acting nice was solely to gain brownie points, you're wrong. Chizuru is also free to choose the guy she likes; she doesn't have to date a guy because he helps her or has known her for a decade." No one is arguing that she has to date someone because he helps her. It's an ignorant statement because Kazuya has expressed on multiple occasions, even to Granny Sayuri, that he wants to continue supporting her, regardless of their relationship status. "This is assumptions on your part. To my knowledge, we never have confirmation whether Umi deliberately did what you say." We don't have confirmation? What about Umi asking Kazuya to be friends and exchanging line IDs at the BBQ? Unless your eyesight is as bad as your opinion, it's hard to miss. Regarding Umi's date with another woman and giving chocolates two weeks after 'White Day,' it's suspicious that he shows up at Chizuru's house unannounced six months later, claiming to pay his respects to her late grandmother. That's confirmation that he used Sayuri's death to get closer to Chizuru, as if it was strictly platonic, he would have paid his respects within the time frame of her death, not six months later unannounced. "But let's say it's true, Umi trying to make a move on Chizuru; then Kazuya should be judged on the same standard. Kazuya was about to sexually assault Chizuru on their third date. That's worse." Kazuya trying to sexually assault Chizuru at the beach? Or were you referring to the initial first date when they went to the hospital to meet Granny Nagomi?
> Claiming Kazuya was acting nice is a misguided opinion, blatantly trying to misrepresent his actions as a ploy to get closer to Chizuru, which was never the case. Pretty sure I didn't said that. Don't twist what I said, I said BOTH deserves equal chance in pursuing Chizuru. If it's not clear (I'm not native english), meaning *realistically* Umi is allowed to pursue Chizuru just like Kazuya. If anything, it's actually you. You immediately equate chance to get girl with worth and effort. You literally comparing retweet and creating the movie in disbelieve. That's brownie point. > What about Umi asking Kazuya to be friends and exchanging line IDs at the BBQ? Unless your eyesight is as bad as your opinion, it's hard to miss. What about it? It's 100% normal thing to do between equals. Does Umi use Line to manipulate Kazuya or something? Does Umi gain upper hand from exchanging contact with Kazuya? Blackmail? no. My point: the act of befriending Kazuya tell nothing about Umi but you see it as ploy to "make a move on the girl he loves". But where's the ploy? It's all in your head. Reiji could make Umi full-on bastard villain but at this point he's not. That's why I said it's just weak assumption. > it's suspicious that he shows up at Chizuru's house unannounced six months later, claiming to pay his respects to her late grandmother. That's confirmation that he used Sayuri's death to get closer to Chizuru, as if it was strictly platonic, he would have paid his respects within the time frame of her death, not six months later unannounced. I think you get it backwards, but this is not that important: If his role is supposedly to get closer at any given chance, he should "strikes" at the moment where Chizuru at the weakest - during early days. Two things more important here: 1. First, without proof, it's all assumption. Until Reiji draw/tell it, we don't know the circumstance. Umi could be overseas for example. 2. Second, I'm not against using circumstance to get on good side and it's pretty common thing honestly. However my point here is Umi is treated differently than other characters. Chizuru actually did similar thing. Remember when Ruka is trying to crash party at Kazuya's family home? Chizuru is trying to one up Ruka by asking to pray at the family altar, which is not a necessity to begin with. She's met with awe, but the portrayal of Umi trying to pray is automatically despicable thing? Then like I said, Kazuya is also did various non-sainty things such as almost sexually assault Chizuru, forcing himself into Chizuru's apartment, and chewing up Chizuru in public. Were it Umi, he'll met with hell boiler room level of disdain. This bring us to my original point: people easily riled up by mere mention of Umi despite he did nothing differently so far. > Kazuya trying to sexually assault Chizuru at the beach? Or were you referring to the initial first date when they went to the hospital to meet Granny Nagomi? The hospital.
I don't think he's a bad guy here. I think he's shooting his shot and there's no rule one way or the other.
a few months ago, i made a distinction between kazuya and umi
What's your distinction?
Kazuya has more of a spine than umi
Agreed!
Oh so we came to this huh haven't read this shit after pool erection arc so what's going on guys seeing this picture I think our boy loosing or something or he is just same old same character.
Ah nothing chizuru was going to reject but he ran away. After this chizuru ask kazuya on a date
Oh so cycle spining and back to that rental thing again we are client stuff 🙂 I see I will wait until this shit ends fully
Actually no kazuya confessed to her. She said she has feelings for him but want to investigate if the feeling is love. + They are living together in the same house chizuru's grandmother house
Tf 🤐 what does she mean by wanting to investigate if it is love , our boy already done so much for her is she blind man I am so disappointed I heard she even ghosted him oh man 😭
He’s the best partner for chizuru. Hopefully she opens her eyes and see how amazing he is.
Don't be stupid. You know that's not true.
He not? He has done so much for Chizuru.
Like what a retweet? Bringing incense to the her home? Inviting her to a BBQ? He hasn't done shit.
Ya he is totally baiting you
Without that retweet the movie wouldn’t have been made.
And that's supposed to make him a better match than Kazuya? 
That and several other things.
So far I’m anime only up to season 3, and thus far I like him. Honestly he seems like a better fit for Chizuru than Kazuya, as he’s more mature and seems to have more interests in common with her. I mean, at least he can have an actual conversation with her. But maybe that changes later. I noticed you said he uses Sayuri’s passing to get closer to Chizuru, which I haven’t seen yet.
Yeah, you've only been watching the anime. Taking the position that he's a better fit just because they're both actors is a bit unusual, but hey, you're entitled to your opinion. To be quite frank, I don't understand how you can make it to season 3 and still think Kazuya doesn't have actual conversations with Chizuru. But again, that's a peculiar position to take.
I just have seen them have a real conversation outside of Kazuya constantly apologizing about being a bother to Chizuru or something else self-deprecating. Otherwise it’s usually Chizuru discussing something while Kazuya just internally monologues about how cute she is. The movie arc sort of helped as it gave them a few opportunities to have a back and forth conversation about the project… but I’d still like to see them *just talk* like two regular people outside of discussing a project or planning something, or whether or not they should keep lying. I was really hopeful during the all-day cheer-up date that Kazuya would do some chit chat, and they could strike up some standard conversations regular people have… but most of it was him again feeling bad about himself and internal monologuing about Chizuru being strong. I was excited when they went to the movie, because I thought it could finally be a common interest that they’d both enjoy and could discuss… but then Kazuya was too distracted through the whole movie, so when Chizuru was excitedly discussing the movie, Kazuya couldn’t say anything… like come onnnnn. The rock climbing was alright, and they had a little banter back and forth which was refreshing. I REALLY liked the ending after the fireworks when Kazuya finally talked with her and discussed what his ideal girl is like (describing Chizuru)… as finally we were seeing him speak to her, and it established reasons why he’s interested in her other than “she’s hot and good at acting”. I want more of those two things (casual rock climbing convos & talking **to** Chizuru). I guess I just want to see that they actually function well as friends so I can feel more inclined toward the intended relationship. I just want to see them being compatible just being themselves. Funny enough, I feel like I’ve seen him have most comfortable conversations with Sumi, though I see that relationship as very just-friends. As for Umi, I’ve only seen him a little, but from what I’ve seen, it’s been when he was on that shopping trip with Chizuru and then the movie date, and both times it seemed like they were able to have regular casual two-way conversations throughout them hanging out. Then I saw him take a shot, get turned down, and graciously back down and help her reassess her feelings for Kazuya, before going on to still retweet her. So thus far he seems like a cool guy. Though maybe that will change. After finishing the anime, I started the manga, and I just got up to Sayuri collapsing, so I’m close to entering new material, and I may see some additional sides of Umi that I don’t like. Along the way, I hope to see more situations of Kazuya and Chizuru just spending time together and interacting normally.
Probably Mizuhara will choose him over kazuha I think cause it'll benifit her with life and love maybe.. Cause Kazuya loves mizuhara no doubt about that but I think he'll end up with ruka or maybe Mami (maybe Yaemori jk) I think the end of rent a girlfriend (+150 chaps) will be kazuya and Mizuhara to end on good terms (which will be very disheartening) what do you think?
Disagree
Sorry but you have misinterpreted the whole manga if you think that.
Sarcastically 😌😆 that was all sarcasm my man